Research Shows Immigration Boosting South Africa Economy

As South Africa battles negative perceptions of immigration in the country, it seems that nevertheless many people are still heading to a start new life in South Africa and with them are bringing a wealth of economic benefits.

According to researchers, rising numbers of migrants are descending upon South Africa's popular Nelson Mandela Bay and even more positively these new arrivals have been proved to be boosting the areas economy.

The Nelson Mandela Bay is estimated to be housing around 23,000 immigrants whom have all chosen to migrate to live and work in South Africa. This figure is meaning that a large number of skilled professionals are also heading to the area, subsequently aiding South Africa's failing skills sector of labour.

It is important for South Africa maintains such movement to the country and although the number of migrants in the bay is considerably lower than that in main cities, such as Johannesburg, the area and country is still feeling the rippling economic effects from the movement.

Already the Bay is ranking as having the third-largest immigrant population. Plus, the number of immigrants in from the rest of the world has already doubled since the previous census in 2001 and now stands at around 8,000.

Economically a large majority of people, particularly those skilled, academics from the rest of the world are taking up highly skilled jobs in areas which South Africa is crying out for. These positions include doctors, nurses and teachers.

Another positive growth benefitting the Bay's economy and standing is the emergence and soar in numbers of foreign students, whom are opting to study in South Africa at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU). According to statistics this bustling university hub has encouraged around 1,700 foreign students to enrol recently.

South African officials acknowledge the benefit of such students and the knowledge and skills which they can bring when they come to South Africa to study. Many such students are ultimately choosing to remain in South Africa following their educational courses being completed, with some even applying for citizenship visas.

The research which showed the booming effects of immigration in the bay area was conducted by the Port Elizabeth Regional Chamber of Commerce and Industry. They further found that over 65% of the immigrants within the area were younger than 30 years of age. This is another positive find as younger persons are generally viewed as more economically beneficial and important to a skills short country.

Researchers concluded that the city was part of a global village with tremendous opportunities for immigrants. They said that "As a city and a country we export skilled people to other countries, so immigrants add value by bringing critical skills to our economy. There is a serious shortage of skills in certain areas of our economy, so to drive growth we should embrace those who fill that gap."

Info from http://www.globalvisas.com

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